WMH welcomes New Year’s baby

War Memorial Hospital welcomed its first baby of 2013 with the birth of Owen Jayce McClure at 9:09 a.m. Tuesday.

Born to parents Monica McDonald and Josh McClure, Owen measured 19 3/4 inches long and tipped the scales at 6 pounds, 15.9 ounces. He joins an older brother, Taylor, 14 and a 10-year-old sister, Jaylynn.

Owen’s due date was Jan. 6, but he evidently wasn’t willing to wait, prompting his parents to make the drive in from Rudyard at approximately 3:30 a.m. Tuesday. Josh explained this wasn’t a problem because he had not engaged in any of the traditional New Year’s Eve activities that have been known affect safe motor vehicle operation.

“A good healthy baby,” said Josh, adding he wasn’t concerned about the lost tax break.

Owen’s family received a host of free gifts and certificates donated by various Chippewa County businesses.